FAQs

Question

Which airport is best?

Answer

The closest major airport is Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)—about 2.5 hours from the park. Other options include Sacramento, San Jose, or Oakland, but all require longer drives. Renting a car is recommended!

Question

Are children allowed?

Answer

We kindly ask that the ceremony in Yosemite be an adults-only gathering to keep the experience intimate and relaxed. That said, we’d be so happy to have your kiddos join us for the celebration in Littleton, where everyone can be part of the fun!

Question

Do I need to pay to get into Yosemite?

Answer

Yes. The park has a $35 entrance fee per car, and it’s good for 7 days, so you only need to pay once even if you come and go. You can pay at the gate or get your pass ahead of time

Question

Reservation Information

Answer

https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/reservations.htm Do I need a reservation to enter Yosemite National Park? Yes, if you’re visiting between June 15 and August 15, Yosemite National Park requires a timed-entry reservation to drive in between 6am and 2pm. Our ceremony and dinner will be outside of these times, however. Good to know if you are staying outside of the park! ⸻ What if I’m staying inside the park? If you have lodging inside Yosemite National Park (such as a hotel, lodge, or campground), you do not need a timed-entry reservation. Your lodging confirmation acts as your entry pass. ⸻ What if I’m staying outside the park? If you’re staying outside the park (e.g., in Oakhurst, Mariposa, etc.), you will need to book a timed-entry reservation in advance to enter the park during peak hours. ⸻ Where do I get a reservation? You can book your park entry reservation on the National Park Service website at www.recreation.gov. ⸻ Any tips? Reservations fill up fast, so we recommend booking early. If you’re unsure where to stay, let us know—we’re happy to help with suggestions!

Question

Do we need a permit to get married in Yosemite National Park?

Answer

Yes, Yosemite does require a simple wedding permit for any ceremony. But, no stress, we’ve got it covered! We’ll be handling the permit process so you don’t have to worry about a thing. All you need to do is show up, soak in the views, and celebrate with us.

Question

Where’s the ceremony happening?

Answer

We’ll be getting married at Cathedral Beach in Yosemite National Park! A beautiful spot right along the river with an epic view of El Capitan. Super peaceful, surrounded by trees and granite cliffs.

Question

How do I get to Cathedral Beach?

Answer

Cathedral Beach is located inside Yosemite National Park, about 30 minutes from the park’s South Entrance and just a short drive from Yosemite Valley. Once you’re in the valley, you’ll follow Southside Drive to Cathedral Beach. Area will be marked with a small sign, and there’s a parking lot just steps from the ceremony spot. We’ll share a dropped pin and detailed directions closer to the day to make it super easy! Heads up: There’s no cell service in the park, so be sure to download offline maps or screenshot the directions before you arrive.

Question

How to Download an Offline Map of Yosemite

Answer

Since cell service in Yosemite is spotty, we recommend downloading the area in Google Maps ahead of time so you can still navigate without signal. For iPhone & Android: 1. Open the Google Maps app. 2. In the search bar, type “Yosemite National Park” and tap it. 3. Tap the name at the bottom to expand the location info. 4. Tap the three dots in the top right corner, then select “Download offline map.” 5. Adjust the area shown to make sure Cathedral Beach is fully covered. 6. Tap Download. That’s it! You’ll now be able to use GPS navigation inside the park without needing cell signal. Just make sure location services are turned on.

Question

Is there parking available at the ceremony location?

Answer

Yes! There’s a small parking lot right at the Cathedral Beach Picnic Area, just steps from the ceremony spot. Parking is first-come, first-served, so we recommend arriving a little early to grab a spot.

Question

Are there bathrooms at the ceremony location?

Answer

Yes! There are restroom facilities right near the Cathedral Beach Picnic Area parking lot, just a short walk from the ceremony spot.

Question

How far is the walk from the car?

Answer

It’s a super short walk, just a minute or two from the parking lot to where we’ll be having the ceremony. The path is flat and easy, and you’ll be surrounded by trees and river views the whole way. No hiking boots needed, just comfy shoes!

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

The vibe is elevated casual so earthy tones, soft fabrics, and outfits that feel both put-together and comfortable. We’ll be on natural ground at Cathedral Beach, so expect a mix of grass, sand, and a little uneven terrain. We recommend wearing shoes that are easy to walk in: flats, sandals, boots, or anything you’d feel good wearing on a riverbank. (Heels will sink and aren’t ideal here) Layers are also a good idea since Yosemite weather can shift throughout the day. Bringing a light jacket or blanket is never a bad move.

Question

Can I explore more of the park before or after the ceremony?

Answer

Yes please! We’d love for you to enjoy it while you’re here. Must-see spots include: • Yosemite Valley • Glacier Point • Tunnel View • Bridalveil Fall • Mirror Lake • Yosemite Falls • Mariposa Grove (giant sequoias!)

Question

How far away is Cathedral Beach from The Ahwahnee Dining Room?

Answer

Cathedral Beach is about a 10–12 minute drive (roughly 4 miles) from the Ahwahnee Dining Room. Jordan and I will be taking photos with our photographers after the ceremony, and before dinner. Feel free to explore the park or relax during this time!